E/R:Akyem Hemang Residents Demand Justice Over Fatal Shooting of Young Man

 

Residents of Akyem Hemang in the Fanteakwa South District of the Eastern Region have called on authorities, including the District Chief Executive (DCE), Member of Parliament (MP), and the District Police Commander, to ensure justice is served in the shooting to death of Douglas Acheampong.

Speaking at a press conference, the spokesperson for the residents, Mr. Kwadjo Asiedu, popularly known as Power, said the community is demanding nothing but justice and an update on investigations into the incident.

According to him, some military personnel were passing through the community after an operation when they spotted a resident, Kwaku Kwebia, an Immigration Officer who was dressed in plain clothes, talking on phone.

He narrated that the officers, who were in four V8 Land Cruisers and a pickup truck, stopped and accused Mr. Kwebia of acting as an informant because he was on a phone call. They allegedly demanded he hand over his phone, but he denied the allegation, explaining that he was speaking to his brother, and resisted handing over the device.

The situation reportedly angered the officers, who attempted to force him into one of the vehicles. This attracted other residents, including Kwebia’s sister, who tried to prevent her brother from being taken away by blocking the entrance to the vehicle.

Mr. Asiedu said Douglas Acheampong also joined in the effort to prevent Kwebia from being taken away, leading to a heated confrontation with the officers.

The officers subsequently fired several warning shots to disperse community members who had gathered at the scene. While fleeing with other residents after the warning shots, Acheampong was allegedly shot at close range from behind. The bullet reportedly entered through his back and exited through his stomach, killing him instantly. The officers are said to have left the scene immediately after the shooting.

Meanwhile, the Operations Manager of Narawa Mining Company, Abdul Kareem, has also called on the appropriate authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death and ensure those responsible are held accountable.

On his part, the Chief of Akyem Hemang, Osaberima Mmiri-Kissi Okasum Apori Atta, said the shooting has left the community devastated and sparked serious concern. He called for a proper investigation and appealed to the youth to remain calm as they demand justice for the late Douglas Acheampong.

Credit: Janet Kwakye